The African Union (AU) has unveiled ambitious plans to strengthen continental maritime cooperation through a proposed pan-African naval exercise in 2027. Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security Ambassador Bankole Adeoye announced the initiative during a February 5 visit to Nigeria's Naval Headquarters, seeking support from Africa's strongest naval power as ranked by Global Firepower.
The exercise aims to enhance coordination among African navies and international partners in combating piracy, illegal fishing, and other transnational maritime crimes. Nigeria's removal from the International Maritime Bureau's piracy list in 2022 positions it as a key player in this initiative, particularly as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) seeks to connect 54 economies through safer shipping routes.
Ambassador Adeoye proposed a phased approach, starting with regional drills among ECOWAS Zone E nations before scaling up to continent-wide operations. Nigerian Naval Chief Vice Admiral Idi Abbas welcomed the proposal, stating plans for formal review while emphasizing existing commitments to Gulf of Guinea security.
This development comes as African nations increasingly prioritize blue economy opportunities, with secure maritime corridors being essential for the AfCFTA's success. The proposed 2027 exercise could reshape regional security dynamics and create new partnerships between African navies and global maritime stakeholders.
